Parade of Perennials

Columbine Time, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

The early spring flowers have shown their last, followed now by the next set of blooms.




Even the bleeding hearts are slowly losing their lustre. Once profuse, fewer new blossoms appear. Each day, I venture out to inspect my garden, seeing new growth and awaiting the next flowers in the parade of perennials. Each new entry is greeted with delight.




Columbines never fail to amaze me - their comet-like flowers streaking across my garden. I never know where they will pop up from year to year as they spread easily. This year they have arrived in profusion.

More delights are waiting their turn. The tall stalks of the tiger lilies are climbing each day and others whose names I never remember are taking their place. It's a slow parade - to be appreciated over months, but the beauty of each entry demands taking time to look, appreciate and just be in the moment.

Humble Beginnings

Humble Beginnings, originally uploaded by susanvg.

My garden is slowly coming to life. A variety of shoots have pushed their way to the surface with promises of flowers. It is hard to believe these humble beginnings will lead to a bushy growth of bleeding hearts. Slowly shoots unfurl, with leafy beginnings. They need to grow quickly to complete their job of flowering so they can begin again next year.

May 2/10: Bleeding Hearts

May 2/10: Bleeding Hearts, originally uploaded by susanvg.

From one day to the next spring works her magic. Flowers grow in fast forward, not there one day and in full bloom the next. My eyes go from one new bloom to another as the garden fills in. Spring is the time of fastest change with daily surprises.

Flowers on bushes and covering trees - their presence fleeting. They demand that you stop and look and breathe in the aromas.

Spring flowers splash colour in gardens across the city.